Pattinson ruled out of Indian T20 League

Kolkata's hopes of strengthening their already formidable pace attack with the inclusion of James Pattinson took a blow when the Australian fast bowler, who was supposed to join the squad on April 5, was ruled out of the sixth edition of Indian T20 League owing to an abdominal injury. He is also likely to miss the ICC Champions Trophy which is scheduled to take place in June.

Pattinson was earlier advised rest on medical grounds to give him the much needed recovery time after the India tour last month. However, Pattinson will now have to undergo a surgery to address a 'non-cricket related medical condition in his lower abdominal region'.

Cricket Australia Chief Medical Officer Justin Paolini said, "James Pattinson will be having surgery tomorrow (Friday) for a non-cricket related medical condition in his lower abdominal region that has been troubling him during the latter part of the recently concluded VB Tour of India.

"He has undergone tests and consulted specialists since returning from India, and it was felt that surgery is absolutely necessary at this time," Paolini mentioned.

"The recovery times will be determined once the surgery is completed but James is expected to return to training in approximately four weeks. His preparation for The Ashes is not expected to be affected but his availability for the ICC Champions Trophy will be determined at a later stage."